I'm a Plus-Size Creator, and Here's How I Define My Style Beyond Stereotypes

Gen Z Says is a series where we tap different members of Generation Z who will give us the latest insight on what's cool in the fashion space. 

While the fashion industry has seen significant improvements in the plus-size space in the past few years, it doesn't change the fact that, for a long time, the fashion "rules" that were created were often tainted with preferences toward slimmer body types. If you watched shows like What Not to Wear, you'd remember that plus-size women were often told to stay away from certain types of clothing and stick to what was the most "flattering," which really meant what made them look slimmer. Now, many people are working to break the old-fashioned rules and stereotypes that can often run deep in the sartorial world. One of those people is Lauren Licup, a Gen Z fashion influencer who takes to social media to show her glorious outfits and is constantly sharing her journey to finding confidence in her body and helping others do the same. 

In one of Lauren's many viral videos, she read an article that provided a list of things "plus-size women shouldn't wear." She proved the article wrong by wearing exactly what they told her not to. Below, she shares the trends that plus-size women are often told they shouldn't wear and how she styles them regardless. Keep scrolling to be inspired and shop her style.

"I found an article that was titled 'What Not to Wear for a Plus-Size Body.' It stated that an all-black or any … monochromatic outfit isn't flattering. I personally love an all-black outfit, regardless of the body type, because of its simplicity. I layered a black button-up vest over a black slip dress and finished it off with black knee-high boots, and I feel so put-together!"

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"It's a known fact that low-waisted jeans are crucial to the identity of Y2K but are extremely exclusionary to plus-size women. In the age of self-love and body neutrality, I've done away with wearing what 'best flatters' my body. I’m wearing the thrifted low-waisted-jeans-and-crop top combo regardless of 'flattery.' It took me all 23 years of my life to realize this! I'm worthy of feeling good in my body, and therefore, it gives me the ability to participate in trends like Y2K no matter how exclusive it is to a specific body type."

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"I used to be terrified of wearing skintight clothing, afraid people would see my rolls or notice my stomach. But the fact of the matter is I'm fat. Whether I choose to wear 'slimming' clothes or a baggy shirt, my body cannot morph itself into something it isn't! Learning this gave me the confidence to try out a miniskirt and crop tops, and I haven't looked back since."

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"My issues with body image and navigating fatphobia have been cured by my love of clothing. It wasn't until I stepped out of my comfort zone with clothing that I realized I can truly wear whatever I want. For example, I had and still struggle with being insecure about my legs, but like I said earlier, my body cannot magically be something it's not, so I should just wear the frilly romper and go about my day!"

Shop Lauren's style:

Next, A Gen Zer Walks Into Nordstrom—Here Are the 57 Trendy and Cool Buys They Find